Statement by the Secretary General of the OAS in Support of the Efforts of the Government of Jamaica to Repel Criminal Elements in Western Kingston

WASHINGTON – “As Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), I fully support the efforts of the Government of Jamaica and its security forces to reassert the authority of the State over the criminal elements in Western Kingston.

The violent response of certain sections of society to the Government’s attempt to serve an extradition order on an alleged gangster is unacceptable in a democratic society.

I have long lamented the threat that organized crime poses to the safety of citizens and the stability of governments in Latin America and the Caribbean. The confrontation that we are now witnessing in Western Kingston is just the latest manifestation of the threat that such groups pose to peace and security in the Americas.

I welcome the assurance given by the Government of Jamaica that its security forces will show restraint in their interactions with the public and will ensure that the rights of innocent Jamaicans are respected.

In every challenge there is also opportunity. I am hopeful that the Government of the people will come out of this difficult situation even more committed to addressing the root causes of crime and violence in their society.”